Girl Waits with Gun by Amy Stewart
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
A historical fiction novel set in 1914 and beyond, that focuses on the real life conflict Constance Kopp, along with her sisters Norma and Fluerette, encounter following an accident with a wealthy family's son, Henry Kauffman. Its the best type of historical fiction - I found myself wondering what was real and what wasn't about halfway through, and I was very much surprised to learn how much of the book's narrative was based on actual events.
Following the accidence, Constance attempts to get the money for their damages back from Henry Kauffman. Kauffman, who is irresponsible but has wealth and lots of "yes" men around him, tries to avoid that responsibility through denial and intimidation. This escalating conflict forms the basis of the narrative, which Stewart develops nicely. The inclusion of actual newspaper stories and clippings in the novel is a nice touch that brings home how remarkable the real events were.
Certainly, the development of the characters is based much on the author's prerogative, but she creates memorable ones, if somewhat uncomplicated - the noble Sheriff Heath, the flamboyant and whimsical Fleurette, the quirky Norma, the smug and impetuous Henry Kauffman, and the resolute Constance at the center of it all.
All in all, an enjoyable read with a well paced narrative, a good story, and relatable characters.
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